First off I would like to apologize how it took us so long to resolve the instability of our website. I understand how frustrating it was for everyone- including our writers, who patiently waiting for pages to load, or trying multiple times in order to get it to. I would like like to extend my gratitude to those who continued to visit us despite the difficult process. Thank you, it means the world to know you didn’t give up on us.

I am sure many wonder why the process took so long. At the end of the day, it all came down to the lack of time, energy and resources. In October I was dealing with a major family emergency that required my full and undivided attention, then in November, my Grandfather was finally put to rest and funerals and such had to be arranged. Those last two months very difficult, agonizing, and exhausting process that nobody should ever have go through. Once it was all over, I simply did not have the energy to do anything, and by the time I did, the site was more or less broken. Luckily a Christmas Miracle happened, and we were able to resolve the problem before the New Year. ; v ;

So once again, thank you so much for waiting for us, and I apologize for not being able to resolve it sooner.
With this we say cheers to Winter 2018, starting anew and hope for exciting and fun days ahead!

Eva: Wow another title I haven’t seen in a very long time. This is the sequel of the first Basilisk series, which aired back in 2005!!!! I didn’t finish watching the first series because of the scale of tragedy and gore.

Vantage: Haven’t seen the first season, so this probably isn’t for me.

Berry: Why do these kids look exactly like Oboro and Gennosuke? Anyway, wow, Basilisk. I saw the original and liked it a lot, but thought it had ended perfectly. What could this sequel do? Considering the original author passed away and someone else is taking his work and creating something entirely new, I’m skeptical.

Nikolita:I have seen the 2005 original and depending on how many other shows I decide to try, would definitely like to cover this.

Pandora: Never heard of this show. Nope.

Possible Bloggers:Nikolita, Berry

Beatless

Animation Company: DiomedeaWebsite: http://beatless-anime.jp/news/
Genre: Action, Sci-Fi, Drama, RomanceAiring Date: January 2018Summary: With the introduction of an ultra-advanced AI that surpasses human intelligence, beings that mankind is yet to fully comprehend made from materials far too advanced for human technology begin coming into being. Lacia, an hIE equipped with a black coffin-shaped device, is one of these. In boy-meets-girl fashion, 17-year-old Arato Endo has a fateful encounter with the artificial Lacia.
Trailer: PV 1 | PV 2

Team Impression

Eva:Grabby hands You know this is right up my alley. I can’t wait to watch this! (And let’s all take a moment to appreciate RedJuice’s stunning art…)

Vantage: I might give this a go. Looks a little generic from the synopsis, but that does not mean it can’t be good.

Berry: I’m not entirely sold on this. We’ve seen this type of premise before, so how different will this be?

Nikolita: Definitely interested.

Pandora: AI sounds cool, I might watch it.

Possible Bloggers:Eva

Cardcaptor Sakura: Clear Card-hen

Animation Company: MadhouseWebsite: http://ccsakura-official.com/anime/
Genre: Adventure, Comedy, Fantasy, Magic, Romance, ShoujoAiring Date: January 7, 2018Summary: Fourteen-year-old Sakura starts junior high school along her friends, including Syaoran, who had just returned to Tomoeda. After having a dream with a mysterious cloaked figure, all of Sakura’s cards turn blank and are rendered powerless, thus she starts her quest to find out what is wrong. In doing so, Sakura and her allies discover and capture new transparent cards using a new key.
Trailer: PV 1 | PV 2 | PV 2.5 |

Team Impression

Eva: Oh my god, it’s been so long!!!!! When I heard the Clear Card manga was first announced, I knew the adaption would soon follow! I will definitely be watching this one!!!! LET’S GO!!!!

Vantage: The only CLAMP title I’m properly familiar with is Kobato, which I absolutely loved.

Berry: I’m so sad, I never finished watching the entirety of Cardcaptor Sakura so I can’t watch this just yet! I watched it a lot as a kid though, but I don’t think they showed the whole thing on TV?

Nikolita: has childhood flashbacks0 I’ve never been a huge CCS fan but I had friends who were. I feel like I owe it to this second season to at least give it a try.

Pandora: Nope. I didn’t watch the OG season.

Possible Bloggers:Nikolita

Citrus

Animation Company: PassioneWebsite: http://citrus-anime.com/
Genre: Drama, Romance, School, Shoujo Ai, YuriAiring Date: January 6th, 2018Summary: Fashionable Yuzu imagined the first day at her new school she transferred to after her mother’s remarriage a bit differently; she didn’t know it’d be an ultra-strict and conservative girls’ school. So instead of a sweet high-school romance, she butts heads with the stern student council president Mei – who turns out to be her new step sister. And she has to learn that hate and attraction are often not that far apart.
Trailer: PV 1 | PV 2

Team Impression

Eva: This is actually one of the few Shouji-Ai/Yuri series I read. It’s a good one and honestly I’m surprised it took this long to get an adaption. I hope it’s done well!

Vantage: I’ve read a bit of the manga, so I know I’m definitely going to like this. Not sure if I’m interested in blogging about it, but I’ll put my name down anyway.

Berry: Look…if they’re step siblings, they’re family to me. I don’t care if they’re not related, their parents married each other so now they’re family so this is incest for me. I know this particular yuri manga is popular, but the premise makes me uncomfortable. :/

Nikolita: I have a friend who really likes the manga, but it’s not for me.

Pandora: I’m going to watch it, because I love yuri!!

Possible Bloggers:Vantage

Dagashi Kashi S2

Animation Company: Tezuka ProductionsWebsite: http://www.tbs.co.jp/anime/dagashi/
Genre: Slice of Life, Comedy, ShounenAiring Date: January 12th, 2018Summary: Second season of Dagashi Kashi. Shikada Kokonotsu’s father owns a rural sweets shop, and his plan is for Kokonotsu to take it over one day. However, Kokonotsu wants to be a manga author instead! One day in summer, the cute but weird girl Shidare Hotaru, from the famous sweets company, comes to pay a visit. Apparently, Kokonotsu’s father is famous and she wants him to join her family’s company. However, he will only agree if she can convince Kokonotsu to take over the family business!
Trailer: PV 1 | PV 2

Team Impression

Eva: Is it just me, or they look a little different from the last time we saw them?

Vantage: They all look a little older than they used to. Is it the change in studio from Feel to Tezuka Productions? I never did manage to finish the first season, but from what I know of this, it’s entertaining enough.

Berry: Wow you can just see the quality drop.

Nikolita: I haven’t seen the first season and have zero interest in the series anyways.

Pandora: Watched half of the first season, but I never finished it. To finish the first season or to not finish the first season, that is the question.

Dame × Prince Anime Caravan

Animation Company: Studio FladWebsite: https://damepri-anime.jp/en/
Genre: Adventure, RomanceAiring Date: January 2018Summary: Ani, a princess from the minor nation of Inaco,is sent to the signing ceremony in Selenfalen, meant to bring peace to the nations of Milidonia, a mighty military country,and Selenfalen, a powerful theocracy. The signing ceremony is supposed to go smoothly, but there she meets a group of strange, messed-up princes…*The anime will tell an original story different from the smartphone game, and will be episodic.
Trailer: PV 1 | PV 2

Team Impression

Eva: While I am not digging the adaption of the character designs, I do appreciate they will be focusing on an original story, so I will be giving this one a chance. But oh my god, please do keep the base of the game, I laughed so hard when the princes were described as strange and messed up!

Vantage: Not for me.

Berry: The main girl is so cute! But might not watch this one.

Nikolita: Nope, no thanks.

Pandora: Nope, but its Harem, though.

Possible Bloggers:Eva

Darling in the FranXX

Animation Company: TRIGGER × A-1 PicturesWebsite: http://darli-fra.jp/
Genre: Sci-Fi, MechaAiring Date: January 13th, 2018Summary: The story is set in the distant future. The land is ruined, and humanity establishes the mobile fort city Plantation. Pilots produced inside Plantation live in Mistilteinn, also know as the “birdcage.” Children live there knowing nothing of the outside world or the freedom of the sky. Their lives consist of battling to carry out missions. Their enemies are mysterious giant lifeforms known as Kyōryū, and the children pilot robots called Franxx to face off against them. For the children, riding the Franxx proves their existence. A boy named Hiro is called Code:016, and he was once known as a prodigy. However, he has fallen behind, and his existence seems unnecessary. Not piloting a Franxx is the same as ceasing to exist. One day, a mysterious girl known as “Zero Two” appears before him. Two horns grow out of her head.
Trailer: PV 1| PV 2

Team Impression

Eva: OH MY GOD!!! THE MAIN CAST FROM ANOHANA, HAS BEEN REINCARNATED IN DARLING IN THE FRANXX! /JK I WILL DEFINITELY BE WATCHING THIS ONE! This collab between TRIGGER × A-1 Pictures is gonna be awesome!

Vantage: It’s all yours, Eva!

Berry: Definitely not a mecha fan but it sounds interesting enough for me to check out.

Nikolita: Can’t wait to read Eva’s reviews! This is something that’s right up my alley. :3

Pandora: Eva, take it away!

Possible Bloggers:Eva

Death March kara Hajimaru Isekai Kyousoukyoku

Animation Company: Silver Link., ConnectWebsite: http://deathma-anime.com/
Genre: Fantasy, RomanceAiring Date: January 11th, 2018Summary: 29-year-old programmer Suzuki Ichirou finds himself transported into a fantasy RPG. Within the game, he’s a 15-year-old named Satou. At first he thinks he’s dreaming, but his experiences seem very real. Due to a powerful ability he possesses with limited use, he ends up wiping out an army of lizard men and becomes a high leveled adventurer. Satou decides to hide his level, and plans to live peacefully and meet new people. However, developments in the game’s story, such as the return of a demon king, may cause a nuisance to Satou’s plans.
Trailer: PV 1 | PV 2

Team Impression

Eva: Nah, I had the chance to read it, but it didn’t stick with me.

Vantage: I’m aware that this is an insanely popular LN. It’s the sort that would be on the same bookshelf as Mushoku Tensei (which still hasn’t got an adaptation) though I’ve never read it myself. I’ll try out the first couple of episodes, but even without knowing anything about it I’m worried that Silver Link will fuck things up by cutting lots of LN content out. They have a really bad habit of doing that.

Berry: Wow, a nerd being transported to another fantasy world. And he gets a harem of girls. This is so fucking original.

Nikolita: Meh?

Pandora: Back at it again with people getting stuck in games. Why is it only RPG’s? How about Sims, racing games, or Mario/Kirby like games?

Fate/Extra: Last Encore

Animation Company: SHAFTWebsite: http://fate-extra-lastencore.com/
Genre: Action, Magic, FantasyAiring Date: January 28th, 2018Summary: Waking up in a strange virtual world with no recollection of the past, Hakuno finds himself forced to fight for survival in a war he does not understand for a prize beyond value; the opportunity to have one’s wish granted. With only an enigmatic “Servant” by his side, Hakuno Kishinami will have to face both friends and foes in battles to the death in order to not only gain possession of a mysterious object known as the “Holy Grail,” but also to find the answer to the most important question of all: “Who am I?”
Trailer: PV 1 | PV 2
Note: There will be two arcs: “Oburidus” Copernican theory: starting January 27th, + “Irusuterias” Ptolemaic theory, broadcast date TBA.

Team Impression

Eva: I LOVE THIS GAME! <3 So happy to see an adaption of it and I am really excited to see SHAFT’s work on it! They did the OP theme for Fate/Extra CCC! (=3= pity that was never brought over…) That being said, I am sad the Female Protagonist isn’t the lead character. :( Talk about a missed opportunity…

Vantage: I’ve never played Extra, but I’m going to watch this because I have an NP1 Tamamo and Umu in Fate/Grand Order, as well as an NP2 Nursery Rhyme. I’ll do it for them.

Berry: Turns out I’m not that into the Fate series after all. Couldn’t get into Apocrypha and I’m not interested in this.

Nikolita: Never seen any of the Fate series and have no plan to.

Pandora:Fate. Keep on seeing that, but never watching it.

Gakuen Babysitters

Animation Company: Brain’s BaseWebsite: http://gakubaby-anime.com
Genre: Comedy, School, Shoujo, Slice of LifeAiring Date: January 7th, 2018Summary: The manga centers on the brothers Ryuuichi and Kotarou Kashima. Ryuuichi is in high school and Kotarou is still a toddler. After their parents are killed in a plane crash, the two brothers find themselves living with the chairwoman of the Morinomiya Academy, who herself lost her son and daughter-in-law in the same accident. The chairwoman, however, has one stipulation for the brothers in order to live with her: Ryuuichi has to work at the academy’s daycare center as a babysitter.Trailer: PV 1 | PV 2

Team Impression

Eva: I can’t tell you how many times to came across this manga, but I never actually read it. It looks so cute too… Will definitely watch!

Vantage: Kind of reminds me of Amaama to Inazuma. Which was I think supposed to be heartwarming, but ended up making me feel extra depressed because I kept self-inserting as the stressed single dad who doesn’t eat well and wondering whether this would be what my life would be like if I had children.

Berry: This looks pure and wholesome as hell and I want it. It reminds me of Hanamaru Kindergarten, which was just as sweet and pure.

Pandora: Aww. It’s cute, but sometimes I get annoyed with these kind of shows.

Possible Bloggers:Berry

Gin no Guardian 2nd Season

Animation Company: Haoliners AnimationWebsite: http://ginno-guardian.jp
Genre: Action, Comedy, Fantasy, Game, SupernaturalAiring Date: January 13th, 2018Summary: Second season of Gin no Guardian. Sui Gin may be poor, but he is one of the best online video game players. This identity however, is unknown to all except for RikuLei, Sui Gin’s classmate. She delivers a mysterious mobile device to Sui Gin but before being able to explain herself, RikuLei is kidnapped and Sui Gin unwittingly finds himself wrapped up in series of problematic circumstances. Searching for a way to save her, he accidentally activates the device allowing him to dive into a new Virtual game-world.
Trailer: PV 1 | PV 2

Team Impression

Eva: Yeah… Even though the first season was in the spring, until I double-checked, I completely forgot about this series.

Vantage: Is this the literal Chinese cartoon one?

Berry: Pass for me.

Nikolita: Also haven’t seen the first season of this title either, so pass.

Pandora:Why??? With the RPG Games. There has been a lot of Chinese animes…(I loved Cupids Chocolates, though.)

Gintama. Gin no Tamashii-hen

Animation Company: BN PicturesWebsite: http://www.tv-tokyo.co.jp/anime/gintama/
Genre: Action, Comedy, Historical, Parody, Samurai, Sci-Fi, ShounenAiring Date: January 8th, 2018Summary: In a world where aliens have invaded Edo Period Japan, skyscrapers, trains and motor bikes have replaced the simple life of Earth inhabitants. One man however, still carries the soul of a samurai, Gintoki Sakata, otherwise known as Yorozuya Gin-san. As reckless as he is, Gintoki carries his own resolve and is ready to take on any challenge with his fellow companions.
Trailer: PV 1 | PV 2

Team Impression

Eva: I… I… I GIVE UP! I AM TOO FAR BEHIND!!!!!

Vantage: Jesus. Maybe we should stop including this in our previews and just chalk it up as a never-ending shounen.

Berry: I’ve officially given up on ever catching up on Gintama. It’s just too much.

Nikolita: Big fat pass from me.

Pandora:I love Gintama, I literally just jump around and watch whatever. The first episodes are the best. And 250 – 255 are pretty great. I have not watched 50 thru 249.

Grancrest Senki

Animation Company: A-1 PicturesWebsite: http://grancrest-anime.jp
Genre: Action, FantasyAiring Date: January 6th, 2018Summary: The story takes place on a continent ruled by chaos. The chaos breeds disaster, but the Lords of the continent have the power of “Crest” (a Mark of the Saint) that can calm the chaos and protect the people. However, one day the rulers throw away their creed of protecting the people, and instead start to fight each other with their powers to gain dominion over each other. The novels center on Silka, an isolated mage who scorns the Lords for abandoning their creed, and a wandering knight named Theo, who is on a journey to train to one day liberate his hometown, which is under tyrannical rule. Silka and Theo make an everlasting oath to each other as master and servant, and work together to reform this continent dominated by wars and chaos.
Trailer: PV 1 | PV 2

Team Impression

Eva: This reminds me of something but I can’t put my finger on what… I will check it out though.

Vantage: You know what this reminds me of? Arslan Senki. Not only because of the name, but since it also feels like a medieval sword-and-sorcery about fighting for liberation and a throne. Except without anyone as cool as Daryun.

Berry: It has a big name attached to it. It looks cool. :)

Nikolita: I wish I had more of an interest in shows like this, honestly, but unless I don’t love the synopsis right off the bat, I don’t feel like I have the energy for them. pout

Pandora:Nope. Can’t do it with these RPG’s and historical animes.

Hakata Tonkotsu Ramens

Animation Company: SatelightWebsite: http://hakatatonkotsu-anime.com
Genre: ActionAiring Date: January 12th, 2018Summary: Crime reaches new heights in the seedy underworld of Fukuoka—a city home to very sinister professions. Among those who kill, torture, and seek revenge as a means of living, a so-called “killer of professional killers” is becoming more than just an urban legend. Private detective Banba is on the case, but when he uncovers a dark conspiracy, it may be the one curveball he can’t hit.
Trailer: PV 1 | PV 2

Team Impression

Eva: Hmmm, crime shows are always a mixed bag for me.

Vantage: Satelight is a good studio, but the synopsis and title sure don’t match up.

Berry: The jazz in the PV was real sexy. Not too sure about the show, though.

Nikolita: Tonkatsu ramen?! Where??

Pandora:Nope. It will probably be the most underrated show of the season, for real though.

Hakumei to Mikochi

Animation Company: LercheWebsite: http://hakumiko.com
Genre: Fantasy, Slice of LifeAiring Date: January 12th, 2018Summary: Nine centimeters (3.5 inches) tall, the tiny girls Hakumei and Mikochi live in the forest. Living in a tiny house in a tree, riding insects and birds, and making umbrellas out of leaves, these tiny girls live a tiny life. Follow their tiny but lovely lives as they live their day to day in a fantastic world of tiny people and gods.
Trailer: PV 1 | PV 2

Team Impression

Eva: Ooh this looks really nice. I think I may have found my warm and fuzzy show of the season!

Vantage: THIS LOOKS CALM AND COMFY. I want to gently stockpile episodes of it and keep them all safe for a rainy day. And then binge through them in bed with snacks and a hot drink.

Eva: I swear to god, this show feels like is a time traveler from early 2000’s, only in HD! Considering I haven’t watched a Shounen series in a long time, this one pipes my curiosity to potentially check out…

Vantage: T-that white animal looks like a hippo from Moomin Valley. Go search it up, you’ll see what I mean.

Berry: The reason it looks dated as hell is because this is a re-adaptation of an older anime. So…nah.

Nikolita: No thanks~

Pandora: Nope. RPG again.

Hataraku Onii-san!

Animation Company: TomoviesWebsite: http://www.hataoni.jp
Genre: ComedyAiring Date: January 5th, 2018Summary: The story centers around the cheerful calico Tapio Chatorazawa and the pessimistic Russian blue Kuehiko Roshihara. The two study in the same college, and also work together on various odd jobs.
Trailer: PV 1 | PV 2

Eva: Despite the fact it’s screaming the power of free hugs, since I missed out on the latest Precure, you know I will be checking this out!

Vantage: These girls look extremely sparkly. Almost blindingly so.

Berry: How is it that they can make a new Precure every year?

Nikolita: Holy sparkles x_x

Pandora: The sparkles are real strong.

Possible Bloggers:Eva

IDOLiSH7

Animation Company: TROYCAWebsite: http://idolish7.com/aninana/
Genre: Music, ShoujoAiring Date: January 1st, 2018Summary: Working at an agency owned by your father, seven new idols await. They are all part of an idol unit IDOLiSH7, and each of them have unique personalities. It is your task to manage them. In order to achieve the same goals, as manager and idols together, you gather the seven ununified hearts and aim for the top.
Trailer: PV 1 | PV 2(Note: Episodes 1-2 were pre-streamed on November 3, 2017. Regular broadcasting will begin in January 2018.)

Team Impression

Eva:COUGHI already have the first impression written up from the early screeningCOUGHSpoiler Alert: I like it.

Vantage: Wow.

Berry: I have the game on my phone. I’ve played a bit of it but have trouble navigating it because of the Japanese but I like the songs and the guys are cute, especially Riku. Though I like TRIGGER more. <3

Nikolita: Paaaaaaass on all the idols for me.

Pandora: I never watched an idol show. Since there have been so many coming out, I should give one a try .

Vantage: This will be good. I have no idea which stories will be animated, but I want the Amigara Fault one (about spindly yet human-shaped holes in a mountain cliff) as well as the one where a town’s inhabitants start producing fuzzy floating hairballs that reveal their deepest secrets. Longer stories like Uzumaki or Hellstar Remina would be great as well if there’s time for those.

Berry: The only Ito Junji story I’ve read was Uzumaki and I couldn’t even finish it because of how terrifying it was. I love horror but even I can barely stomach this man’s stories. But…I’m going to watch this.

Nikolita: Someone will have to explain this to me, since it looks really creepy and thus I shall avoid it.

Pandora: Nah. Every time I watch something horror, I start laughing. I probably never seen anything scary really. In Unfriended, when the spirit made the guy put his hand in a blender and turn it on, I just started laughing

Possible Bloggers:Vantage

Karakai Jouzu no Takagi-san

Animation Company: Shin-Ei AnimationWebsite: http://takagi3.me/#index
Genre: Slice of Life, Comedy, Romance, School, ShounenAiring Date: January 8th, 2018Summary: “If you blush, you lose.”Living by this principle, the middle schooler Nishikata gets constantly made fun of by his seat neighbor Takagi-san. With his pride shattered to pieces, he vows to turn the tables and get back at her some day. And so, he attempts to tease her day after day, only to find himself victim to Takagi-san’s ridicule again sooner than later. Will he be able to make Takagi-san blush from embarrassment even once in the end?
Trailer: PV 1 | PV 2 | PV 3

Team Impression

Eva: It’s probably as cute as everyone says it is… watches PV THIS IS GOING TO BE SO CUTE!!!

Vantage: This is really well-liked by those who read it. Including me. Takagi-san is cute! CUTE! I doubt it’s possible to blog this on a regular basis though.

Nikolita: FCK PEOPLE WHO DO THIS. >:/ I know people who try to get me to blush or jump because I make noises when poked, and it irritates me.

Pandora: Hmmm..seems wholesome.

Killing Bites

Animation Company: LIDEN FILMSWebsite: http://www.killingbites-anime.com
Genre: Action, Ecchi, Horror, Sci-Fi, SeinenAiring Date: January 13th, 2018Summary: People have been created that are human-animal hybrids, and powerful businesses bet on the outcome of their duels. College student Nomoto Yuuya’s casual acquaintances ask him to drive them around to pick up girls one day, which he soon finds out means by force. The girl they kidnap is an animal-human hybrid named Hitomi, who slaughters all of them except Yuuya. Hitomi is a honey badger, which has been called the most fearless of all animals. Now Hitomi is assigned to stay with Yuuya, for his protection!
Trailer: PV 1 | PV 2

Team Impression

Eva:Pulls out second bag of saltLook I can’t stand Horror okay?

Vantage: Nah. Reminds me of that one OVA that came out this time last year about a werewolf girl being hunted, but this doesn’t look like it’ll be going down the same path.

Berry: I’m not sure what direction this will take. Looks violent and crazy, which kinda catches my eye, but only if the story backs it up.

Nikolita: Unique, but weird. Pass.

Pandora: Nope.

Koi wa Ameagari no You ni

Animation Company: Wit StudioWebsite: http://www.koiame-anime.com
Genre: Romance, SeinenAiring Date: January 2018Summary: Akira is an aloof and cool girl that used to be in the track club of her school. Right now she is working as a part-timer in a family restaurant next to her crush, the manager… a 45 year old divorced man.Trailer: PV 1 | PV 2

Team Impression

Eva: There’s a good chance I will be watching this. How far I get depends on how the story and characters are handled. Sometimes they are great and I love them to death, and sometimes, not so much. We will have to wait and see.

Vantage: So it’s an emotional drama with beautiful scenic backgrounds. The age gap between the girl and her crush is understandably off-putting to some people, but there do exist shows that have tackled taboo relationships in a mature and wholesome way (e.g. Koi Kaze) and this might be another one of them.

Berry: I think in another synopsis it says she’s 17. Still, the plot makes me wary but the way it’s presented makes me think that they’ll handle this story in a mature way. Like, telling the story of a vulnerable girl with confused emotions. At least, I hope it’s like that.

Nikolita: Notice that in the synopsis above her age isn’t given. She looks like a high school student, which is still ick when the other half of the relationship is in their 40s. shudder No thank you. #yesnikolitaisawetblanket #imgettingold

Pandora: I’m going to watch this at some point. Just because I enjoy slight crazy.

Possible Bloggers:Eva, Berry

Kokkoku

Animation Company: Geno StudioWebsite: http://kokkoku-anime.com
Genre: Drama, Mystery, Psychological, SeinenAiring Date: January 8th, 2018Summary: Juri Yukawa lives with her NEET father and brother, her retired grandfather, her sister (a single mother) and her young nephew. One day, her nephew and brother are kidnapped for ransom. Having only 30 minutes to meet the demands of the kidnappers, Juri, who realizes there is not enough time to prepare the money, decides to head for their rescue by herself with knife in hand when her grandfather uses a mysterious stone passed on in the Yukawa family to stop time.

In a world where everyone and everything are inert, Juri and her father and grandfather run to rescue the two. But at the kidnappers’ hideout, they soon realize they are not the only ones who can move about in this still world…Trailer: PV 1 | PV 2

Team Impression

Eva: Holy smokes, well that’s one heck of an intense premise we have here! But watching the preview, it might just be a bit too intense for me (which is weird considering I can watch Gundam…>_> How strange indeed…)

Vantage: Wow. This might be interesting. Will give it a couple of episodes.

Berry: I like how family oriented this is. :o I think it’s worth a watch.

Nikolita: No thanks. Props for using the term NEET though.

Pandora: Somebody about to get killed. It’s like the comic Sex Criminals. They stop time, try to rob a bank, realize they aren’t the only ones, and then they get caught by the people who don’t stop..

Märchen Mädchen

Animation Company: Hoods EntertainmentWebsite: http://maerchen-anime.com
Genre: Fantasy, Magic, SchoolAiring Date: January 11th, 2018Summary: Hazuki Kagimura is a normal girl who is usually alone. With her relationship with her new family not going so well, she retreats every day to the world of stories and books. One day, after school, one of the library’s bookshelves sends her to another world with a magic school, where she meets Shizuka Tsuchimikado. She finds out that girls (called “mädchen”) who attend the school are selected by old fairy tails and folk stories to wield their magic, and are taught how to wield it in the school. The school has girls who are chosen by such stories as Kaguya-hime no Monogatari, Issun-boushi, Der Freischütz, Shuten-douji, The Little Matchstick Girl, The Gigantic Turnip, Arthurian legends, and The Ramayana. Hazuki herself is chosen by the Cinderella story. She begins her new life at the school to become a magic user, and be friends with Shizuka.
Trailer: PV 1 | PV 2

Team Impression

Eva: Ooh I like where they are going with this! Will tune in for this one!

Vantage: This looks cute and fluffy. I’m calling it now, it could be a potential sleeper hit if I think it’s what it is. Very happy to share this with Berry if she’s okay with it, since it deserves coverage but I’m doubtful that I can do it alone.

Berry: I really like that they’re taking girls from fairy tales and folk stories, and that they’re varied stories such as traditional Japanese ones, German ones, and even one from India. I love fairy tales and myth so I’m interested to see what they’ll do here.

Nikolita: Cute, but pass.

Pandora: Watching it. I have been reading a comic called Grim Fairy Tales, where a girl named Sela wields a magical book with folktales in it( the real ones, not that fake Disney story trash).

Possible Bloggers:Vantage, Berry

Miira no Kaikata

Animation Company: 8bitWebsite: http://www.tbs.co.jp/anime/miira/
Genre: Comedy, Slice of Life, SupernaturalAiring Date: January 12th, 2018Summary: When high school student Kashiwagi Sora finds himself staring down a mysterious oversized package sent to him by his self-proclaimed “adventurer” father, the last thing he expects is for it to be opened from the inside… by a little mummy so small it can fit in the palm of his hand!
Trailer: PV 1 | PV 2

Team Impression

Eva: Sounds like I might just be another cutesy dose of the season! <3

Vantage: So they all have… pets of some sort?

Berry: More warm…pure…cute…thank you.

Nikolita: Say wha?

Pandora: Nope.

Mitsuboshi Colors

Animation Company: Silver LinkWebsite: http://mitsuboshi-anime.com
Genre: Comedy, Slice of LifeAiring Date: January 7th, 2018Summary: The “Colors” are three cute little girls who hang out together and say they’re protecting the peace of their city. They have lots of fun together, doing stuff like playing games, solving puzzles, and going to the zoo. This manga follows their largely happy daily life.
Trailer: PV 1 | PV 2

Berry: This reminds me of that kiddie detective show Charibo covered awhile back. Except this one is way more innocent and, dare I say it….warm and pure.

Nikolita: Definitely way too cutesy for me.

Pandora: Eh.. I’m not sure why I hate cute shows, but I hate shows with too much conflict. I make no sense.

Nanatsu no Bitoku

Animation Company: BridgeWebsite: http://7-virtues.net/anime/
Genre: Ecchi, FantasyAiring Date: January 2018Summary: The “Seven Mortal Sins,” demons from hell, have pressed forward and have started to spread their plague. Heaven is in chaos, and the angels of the “Seven Heavenly Virtues” are sent to Earth to search for a candidate to become the “true messiah.”
Trailer: PV 1 | PV 2

Overlord II

Eva: I enjoy Overlord, but not enough to blog about it. I do read the novels though! :D

Vantage: I also enjoyed Overlord, but also not enough to blog about it. This might be an unpopular opinion, but I don’t really like any of the girls in this show, and especially not Albedo. I-I kind of wouldn’t mind if Nabe stepped on me, but that’s it.

Berry: I did not like Overlord. Yup. Didn’t care for it. Sorry. :/

Nikolita: I haven’t seen the first season, but one of my former roommates adores this show and I have seen a few clips from his marathon binges. It’s a really neat idea, but like Eva I’m not into it enough to blog about it.

Pandora: Nope. Too much RPG and action up in this season.

Ramen Daisuki Koizumi-san

Animation Company: Studio GokumiWebsite: http://ramen-koizumi.com
Genre: ComedyAiring Date: January 4th, 2018Summary: Koizumi is a mysterious and attractive high school student. But what most people don’t know about her is that she’s a ramen master who is always on the lookout for great ramen restaurants. Everyday, she goes hunting for real-life places serving the best ramen dishes and delightfully eats the delicious noodles. The way Koizumi downs a giant bowl of ramen–more adeptly than any large man–will amaze and delight you!
Trailer: PV 1 | PV 2

Team Impression

Eva: Damn it it this show is only going to make me hungry and crave fresh ramen that I can’t get.

Vantage: I love Studio Gokumi, but not enough to watch a show about cute girls who love eating ramen. Looking forward to the inevitable adaptation of Saki Loser-hen in ten years’ time.

Berry: I love ramen but if that’s all they’re going to be doing -eating ramen- then I’ll pass.

Nikolita: Oh man~ I might just take a peek at this; I love ramen!

Pandora: Love ramen, but not enough to watch this show.

Ryuuou no Oshigoto!

Animation Company: Project No. 9Website: http://www.ryuoh-anime.com
Genre: Comedy, GameAiring Date: January 9th, 2018Summary: The story is about a teenage boy who happens to be a shogi master. One day, a nine-year-old girl turns up at his house, announcing that she will take him as her disciple. From there, all kinds of wacky hijinks ensue.
Trailer: PV 1 | PV 2

Team Impression

Eva: I am not into Shoji, period.

Vantage: This looks like a budget version of what 3-gatsu no Lion would have been if it had been published under a different genre.

Berry: I have no clue what direction this will take, but for some reason I’m getting icky vibes.

Nikolita: I have to agree with Berry on this one.

Pandora: I hate shogi and chess. Passed.

Sanrio Danshi

Animation Company: Studio PierrotWebsite: http://sdan-anime.com
Genre: SchoolAiring Date: January 6th, 2018Summary: Oosaki Rio, transfers to a new high school and befriends some guys that are Sanrio character fans as much as she is. But one of them caught her attention.
Trailer: PV 1 | PV 2

Team Impression

Eva: ….Nah. Not even the hot guys can get me to watch this.

Vantage: Is this like an anime version of Kirara Fantasia except for the Sanrioverse? Reminder that Alice and Chiya are on rate-up over Christmas.

Berry: I have quite a few Hello Kitty things in my room. Plushies, blankets, accessory box, earrings, notebook, storage bins (lmao). Also a couple My Melody things…so yeah, you can say that I enjoy Sanrio but I don’t think I’d go so far as to blog about the show. But I hope after watching this show, guys can embrace their love of Sanrio and cute things without shame!

Nikolita: No thanks. There’s nothing wrong with guys liking Sanrio of course, I’m not just that much of a Sanrio fan. They’re cute but that’s about as far as my interest in them goes.

Pandora: Nope. Too cute.

Shinkansen Henkei Robo Shinkalion

Animation Company: OLMWebsite: http://www.shinkalion.com
Genre: Action, Kids, Mecha, Sci-FiAiring Date: January 6th, 2018Summary: In the franchise’s story, Hayato Hayasugi (his last name is a pun on the words for “too fast”), the train-loving son of a train museum curator, accidentally stumbles into his dad’s secret research lab one day. Inside he finds the E5 bullet train. As soon as he enters, he hears an announcement that a mysterious enemy, the Bachigami (“bee god”), is attacking the city of New Saitama. Luckily, with the touch of his father’s Shinca (“evolve”) card, the bullet train he’s in transforms into a mighty robot — the Shinkalion E5 Hayabusa.

In the anime’s story, Hayato and other children will serve as conductors to pilot the Shinkalion. The children must work together with the adults of the “Shinkansen Ultra Evolution Institute” (SUEI) to defeat a monster that looks like a jet black bullet train.Trailer: PV 1 | PV 2

Slow Start

Animation Company: A-1 PicturesWebsite: http://slow-start.com
Genre: Comedy, School, Slice of LifeAiring Date: January 7th, 2018Summary: Hana Ichinose is a normal 16-year-old high school student. However, there is something different about her: She enrolled in high school one year late! Her classmates are unaware of this, and Hana will have to work hard to catch up with everyone else.
Trailer: PV 1 | PV 2

Team Impression

Eva:Are you kidding me?

Vantage: My stockpile of CGDCT shows is growing stronger by the season. Blend-S has been chilling in there for months now.

Berry: This girl is just taking things too seriously!

Nikolita: Not interested.

Pandora: What does that even mean? She just didn’t go to high school or she had an illness?

Possible Bloggers:Vantage

Takunomi.

Animation Company: Production IMSWebsite: http://www.tbs.co.jp/anime/takunomi/
Genre: Comedy, Slice of LifeAiring Date: January 12th, 2018Summary: 20-year-old Michiru Amatsuki moved to Tokyo due to a change of career. She decided to live in a woman-only share house “Stella House Haruno” with people of different age and occupations. It’s always fun when there’s delicious alcohol and meals!!
Trailer: PV 1 | PV 2

Team Impression

Eva: It’s cool to have a variety of characters, but I’m not feeling this one.

Vantage: Eh. I’ll try this out, but why does it feel like it’d be better suited to being a TV short?

Berry: I like that it’s a variety of ages! :o

Nikolita: I can smell the beer puns already.

Pandora: I feel like this will be funny. Let me check that out!

Possible Bloggers:Pandora

Toji no Miko

Animation Company: Studio GokumiWebsite: http://tojinomiko.jp
Genre: Action, FantasyAiring Date: January 5th, 2018Summary: There’s an evil creature called Aratama that attack people, and a group of Miko has been exorcising those creatures using swords since olden times. Those who wear uniforms and swords are called Toji, who are officially called Tokubetsu Saishi Kitoutai (Special Ritual Maneuver Team) in the police association. They are officially approved of wielding the swords by the government officials. The government has established five training schools consisting of junior and senior high levels for the female students to attend. They spend their student life normally, and use special skills with the swords when they’re doing missions to protect people. In the spring, these five schools are to take part in a competition. Among the girls who train for the competition, there’s a girl who’s a bit more passionate than any other girls. Where would the girl with the sword aim?
Trailer: PV 1 | PV 2

Team Impression

Eva: I swear to god I seen this before…. Like years ago…

Vantage: This would have flourished a decade ago. Now it feels a little. But I’ll try it out anyway since the girls look cute.

Nikolita: Haven’t seen the first season for this either, so one more pass from me.

Pandora: What is up with the shows nobody has seen the first season/ never heard of it? Dang.

Uchuu yorimo Tooi Basho

Animation Company: MadhouseWebsite: http://yorimoi.com
Genre: AdventureAiring Date: January 2nd, 2018Summary: Our first step was always curiosity. For unseen sights, unheard sounds, unsmelled scents, untouched textures, untasted tastes, and unfelt excitement. We travel to find the bits and pieces that we’d forgotten at some point. Howling at 40 degrees, going mad at 50 degrees, screaming at 60 degrees, to the primordial lands beyond the great oceans, at the edge of the earth, far removed from human civilization. This is the story of four girls who travel to the Antarctic, further even than outer space.
Trailer: PV 1 | PV 2

Team Impression

Eva: Ooh sounds like fun! :D Can’t wait to see how this one turns out!

Vantage: Madhouse is a wonderful sign. It looks really good, I’m going to watch this for sure.

Berry: I’m so curious how a group of high school girls are going to go to the Antarctic. It sounds insane!

Nikolita: I might watch this, but I don’t think I’d like this enough to blog it.

Pandora: Hmm.

Possible Bloggers:Berry

Violet Evergarden

Animation Company: Kyoto AnimationWebsite: http://violet-evergarden.jp
Genre: Drama, FantasyAiring Date: January 10th, 2018Summary: Long ago the “Auto Memories Doll” was born. Professor Orland, an influential figure in the printing industry, invented a new type of printing machine for his wife Molly, so that she could write novels after she had lost her eyesight. The machine was given the appearance of a petite lovely doll.

Putting his heart and hopes into it, the professor named it “Auto Memories Doll”. Eventually, Auto Memories Dolls became widespread, supporting the lives of many. Now, the term is applied to women whose work is to put thoughts into words, either for those who cannot write or on behalf of others.

This story is about a young girl, Violet Evergarden, and how she connects people’s hearts as an Auto Memories Doll living at the turning point of a generation.Trailer: PV 1 | PV 2 | PV 3 | PV 4

Team Impression

Eva: Nuff said, everyone been waiting for this for so long!!!!! I just hope it doesn’t disappoint, the hype is real for this one!

Vantage: Okay. It’s finally here. You have no idea how terrified I am. I have waited a year and a half for this, and you’re probably aware of that too, seeing how I’ve name-dropped it in every other Maid Dragon post and season preview. I’m actually scared that I’ve overhyped it in my mind, and that I’ll be disappointed when it actually airs. In all honesty, I was not a fan of the subtle change in animation style that was announced about a year ago – the art went from looking like Amagi Brilliant Park in its very first PV to something resembling Koe no Katachi (with hints of Kyoukai no Kanata), and whilst Amaburi isn’t exactly the greatest show I did love its character designs. There’s also the fact that Violet Evergarden is an Ishidate show (Kyoukai no Kanata) when in light of its genre I’d have preferred Yamada (Koe no Katachi, Tamako Love Story) or Ishihara (the Air, Kanon, Clannad trio, Chuunibyou, Hibike Euphonium) out of their in-house directors. Still, I’m going to do my best to love it. And even if I don’t at first, Kyoani will find a way. I already know Violet Snow off by heart, after all.

Berry: I’m not a fan of Kyoani, but this show looks absolutely amazing. I hope it doesn’t disappoint because this could very well be anime of the year.

Vantage: ANGERY CYCLING, Hakogaku revenge edition! I know I’m going to sound like a fujoshi (and I’m not even a girl) but I genuinely cannot wait to continue cheering on my sweaty dramatic singing princes (plus one lizard man creature) with extremely sharp chins. No but seriously, look at that murder weapon on Imaizumi. I bet he can fucking cut diamonds with that thing, holy shit.

Berry: AHHHH, I FELL BEHIND ON THE THIRD SEASON. I’M SO ANGRY AT MYSELF!

Nikolita: Another sports anime, pass.

Pandora: Boy. They need to stop now. I tried to watch this in 2013-2014 when it first dropped with my brother. I can’t do this show.

Yuru Camp△

Animation Company: C-StationWebsite: http://yurucamp.jp
Genre: Comedy, SeinenAiring Date: January 4th, 2018Summary: Rin likes to go camping by herself along the lakes that provide a scenic view of Mt. Fuji. Nadeshiko loves to take cycling trips by herself to places where she can see Mt. Fuji. After they meet, Rin and Nadeshiko take camping trips, eat cup ramen together, and enjoy the scenery.
Trailer: PV 1 | PV 2

Team Impression

Eva: Nah, these shows don’t stick with me. They are cute, but I quickly forget about them.

25-sai no Jyoshikousei [TV-SHORT]

Animation Company: LilixWebsite: N/A
Genre: Romance, Ecchi, SchoolAiring Date: January 7th, 2018Summary: The romance story centers around Hana Natori, an earnest, good-natured 25-year-old woman whose cousin refuses to go to high school. Hana takes her cousin’s place and attends the high school. On her first day, though, Hana’s ruse is discovered by her former high school classmate Okito Kanie—who happens to be the high school’s world history teacher.
Trailer: PV 1 | PV 2

Team Impression

Eva: Well, there better be a god damn good reason the cousin doesn’t want to go to school, otherwise this girl is either stupid or too damn nice for her own good… Thank god she’s not actually a student… until she hooks up with one who actually is.
Don’t look at me like that, we all know it’s bound to happen!

Vantage: This looks like the set-up for a cheap hentai short.

Berry: Tell me, how the fuck is this going to help her cousin? Sure she can take their place, but they’re not learning! How is this a logical solution? It’s not! She’s both stupid and too nice.

Nikolita: Didn’t we just have a show like this in the fall season? Or very similar anyways.

Pandora: They doing it again. I’ll give it a try. Of, course, this show is cringefest, but I like watching these shows. It’s weird. Why am I not feeling those cute shows, but I’m feeling this…

Berry: Heard this show is hilarious but I haven’t seen the first season.

Nikolita: Still a nope from me.

Pandora: Me and brother were dying laughing. YES! I love this show.

Possible Bloggers:Pandora

Overall Thoughts

Eva: My the Winter certainly surprised me with how many titles managed to garner my interest! There are a lot of warm and fuzzy shows that will be perfect to compliment the cold and bitter winter. Goes to also serve as your vitamin of the week! There will be a lot of changes in term of my schedule in the New Year so I will have to see how many I can really pick up and which days will actually work best for me. At this time, I can guarantee I will be covering at least the first three episodes ofDarling in the FranXX,Hugtto! Precure, and IDOLiSH7. Four shows seem to be my limit nowadays, but if my schedule allows it, and the shows are spread throughout the week enough, then I might pick up one of the few I signed up for (unless I change my mind about one or more of top 3). The shows I will likely to watch on the side and may do a first impression on if it resonates with me are: Beatless, Cardcaptor Sakura: Clear Card-hen, Dame × Prince Anime Caravan, Fate/Extra: Last Encore, Hakumei to Mikochi, Märchen Mädchen, and Koi wa Ameagari no You ni! Yup, looks like I am all set for the Winter!

Vantage: This is the season of Violet Evergarden. It alone should be enough to hold up the entire season by itself, but there are lots of other good shows in the mix – the general trend seems to be leaning towards dramas and CGDCTs, like Koi wa Ameagari no You ni or Märchen Mädchen, but there are also some heavy hitter fantasies (sequel or otherwise) that will appeal to the right audiences, like Death March, Overlord, Fate/Extra, or Nanatsu no Taizai. All of which you’d almost expect to be slated for Spring given their popularity, but oh well. For now, I can only confirm that I’m going to be blogging Violet Evergarden for sure, but that may change depending on how the season progresses. Every time we prepare one of these previews I’m reminded by my ever-growing backlog of shows, and it seemingly never gets smaller.

Berry: I’m really surprised. Usually the Winter season is pretty terrible and barren, but this time there’s actually variety in its shows. There’s lots of different stuff and most of them look pretty great. There’s lots of sweet and cute little shows, some exciting actions ones, drama, etc, so that’s a very promising start to the year. I’ve definitely up to covering Marchen Madchen, Gakuen Babysitters, and the show with the girls going to the Antarctic. I also signed myself up for Basilisk and Koi wa Ameagari, though I’m not too sure with them both but I want to at least check them out and write my thoughts out for them because they catch my eye. Overall, this season looks like it’ll be lots of fun!

Nikolita: I’ve signed up to take a look at 3 shows, but honestly I’m hit or miss with Cardcaptors. It’s cute and I was a fan when I was younger (I think it was airing on North American TV when I was in middle school/early high school), but I didn’t omg-super-love-adore it like some of my friends and peers did. So if this sequel series isn’t up my alley I will likely drop it. Aside from that, I’m looking forward to both the Basilisk prequel and the cutesy miniatures show. There’s nothing in this season that I’m super super excited for, so another nice calm season will be in the cards hopefully. Who knows, maybe I’ll watch some shows on the side for once (Violet Evergarden, Beatless)

Pandora:*sigh* This season is filled with cute girls, shounen, and dem idols. Not much for me. I’ll watch Citrus because I love yuri and Marchen Madchen because I like the idea of re imagining old fairytales. I really do not like cute shows too much. When I watch them, I feel creeped out and not happy. I just want something funny like Saiki Kusuo no Ψ-nan to watch. All the shows I want to blog are comedies Hataraku Onii-san!, Saiki Kusuo no Ψ-nan S2 [TV-SHORT], 25-sai no Jyoshikousei, and Takunomi), so I’m super excited.

4 Responses

Fate/Extra: Last Encore- Whenever there’s a Fate series anime, they’ll simply insert a Saberface as the female lead, this time with a genderbend Nero Claudius; honestly I’m really sick of this trope when it becomes increasingly unbearable as time passed by (Astolfo is a trap; Jack the Ripper in thongs WTF; Da Vinci? Call her “Mona Lisa” please; Nezha as a female OMG how dare they insult one of the most prominent Chinese mythological heroes; the list goes on…). At least true bois Gawain and Li Shuwen are in it so I’ll give the show a try.

Hugtto! Precure- Sighs… My enthusiasm for Precures truly diminished after the end of the excellent Go Princess Precure. Afterwards, Mahou Tsukai was an absolute trainwreck and only Yugioh Arc V’s latter half collapse prevented it for becoming the the worst show of 2016; while Kirakira Precure had a pretty decent first half, the drop of quality during the second half was puzzling where fights became so sluggish & predictable, villains regressed to being one-dimensional and main characters weren’t developed properly except Ichika. Hugtto’s concept of “hugging” might run dry really fast and none of their main Cures have standout designs. Still, I might try watching some early episodes.

Yuru Camp: This one sounds cute and it’s a new territory for me, so I myself aren’t certain how I’ll view the show, maybe time will tell.

Hugtto’s precure uniform may seem generic, but I love it! It’s one of the best outfits I’ve seen recently in the franchise; I couldn’t stand scarlet’s costume and animal ears and tails are not for me. Mahoutsukai’s uniforms turned me off.

Wow, a lot of hate for shogi. I haven’t heard of Ryuuou no Oshigoto!, but in defense of 3-Gatsu no Lion, if you ignore the shogi stuff, it’s a really heartwarming tale about a young man maturing through Shogi. In a way, it’s kind of like Orange, so if you don’t watch it for the Shogi, just enjoy it for the heartwarming character moments.

Darling in the FranXX seems interesting (especially since you mentioned that the old AnoHana cast is coming back), and Mitsuboshi Colors is also nice. I’m a sucker for shows like that. Remember what you guys thought of School-Live? I’m getting vibes like that. Karakai Jouzu no Takagi-san is gonna be my top anime this season, well, aside from hopefully Beatless. Nishikata, the protagonist, probably gets what he deserves….

So it looked interesting so i clicked on PV1 to Beatless. Like the art style, music (lack of) draws me in, character at 0:51 reminds me of one from Disgaea and 0:53 reminds me of version 3 of KosMos (Xenosaga).